I have a stressful job. Its taken me a while to realise that. By the way, I mean vetting not TV, TV is a breeze compared to veterinary science. The responsibility you have for people’s loved ones is immense. Although I work as part of a team, I am the one ultimately responsible for the animals under my care. A lot of my stress comes from worrying about what I don’t know, as opposed to appreciating what I do know. There is always more to learn. I spend a great deal of time over the year consulting text books, speaking to experts and attending training courses. i have already signed up for at least 14 days worth of CPD (Continual Professional Development) this year and undoubtedly will grab a few more as the year goes by. So with that in mind - how am I going to manage my stress? Well, over the last few months I have been making a pretty poor job of it, resulting in me having a week off to just recuperate and get back on an even keel. I have two very understanding bosses (who are also two of my best friends), a wonderful family and lots of supportive friends. What I have to do is learn to lean on them a little. They are all extremely willing to support me in the same way that I try and support them. I am not the best at asking for help and just as bad at even just letting people help me unasked. I haven’t made a new years resolution for many years (the last one I made was amazingly good for me though - “Arrive Early - Bring a Book”). But this year I will take much better care of myself by “Taking Time Out” and “Asking for Help”. What has this to with the Snowboarding picture above? Chuff all - but I have been snowboarding last week in the Alps so I thought I stick them in. There is a pseudo-medical term ‘Nature Deficit Disorder’ being bandied about which refers to the benefits on physical and Mental well-being of experiencing nature. A good walk / run in the local hills will feature heavily in my therapy this year. Happy New Year to you all and take good care of yourselves. x